A guide to the major rocks, minerals and gemstones found in Europe. It contains an introduction to the basics of mineralogy, followed by a list of the general features of a rock that can be used in its identification. It also explains how to tell the basic difference between an igneous, metamorphic and sedimentary rock, allowing quick reference to the major identification sections for each of these classes. In these will be found comprehensive descriptions of each rock or mineral, with details of its composition, hardness, specific gravity, colour, fracture, cleavage, streak, lustre, transparency and crystal system, as well as notes on how it is formed and where it might be found, both in the UK and in the rest of the world.

Easy-to-use introductory illustrated guidesto discovering the natural world Rocks and Minerals covers 220 commonly found types of rock, mineral, and gemstone throughout the world. This pocket-size guide is the ideal companion for beginner geologists and contains practical advice and information for those wanting to further their interests. Full-color photographs illustrate each type of rock or mineral, including their crystalline structure or other identification features Information on distribution, chemical composition, hardness, color, and texture Detailed description and ID Fact File offers key identification information at a glance

Contains descriptions and photographs of approximately six hundred minerals, rocks, and meteorites, providing information about the history, origin, structure, composition, properties, classification, and location of each specimen.

A fully illustrated guide to gemstones Striking full-color photographs Detailed descriptions of each stone Additional artwork showing identifying features Published in collaboration with the Smithsonian Institution, America's foremost authority in history and science.